Discusses the restructuring of vocational schools in the Soviet Union before its dissolution. Concludes that restructuring had become a reality as processes of democratization increased. Notes that the Soviet Union had focused on quantity rather than quality in technical education. Compares the Soviet program with those of other developed…

Discusses the nature of the school council in the Soviet Union during Perestroika. Suggests that the councils have yet to find their place in the social and political changes of democratization. Attributes the low effectiveness of the school councils to student and parent passivity. (DK)

Discusses the need to guide general education students in the former Soviet Union into blue collar occupations. Observes that, despite technological changes, manual laborers will continue to comprise a majority of the work force. Argues that manual laborers need to complete their schooling. Underscores the value of vocational training and guidance…

Addresses the problems of administration in the large former Soviet school complexes. Explains how a school of 1,600 students in the city of Komsomol'sk (Poltava Region) was reorganized into 3 independent collectives. Suggests that the larger schools may be unworkable without such reforms and that the existing staff roster is outmoded. (SG)

Explores the role of the regional organizational-pedagogical system in the former Soviet Union. Suggests that the organization of social interaction can be addressed on the district level. Discusses a project in the Dnestrovskii district in which a social pedagogical complex has been organized to strengthen schools' material base, develop…

Discusses the history and role of differentiated secondary education in the former Soviet Union. Outlines the responsibilities of differentiated instruction. Offers suggestions for continuing this type of education in the future. (SG)

Discusses a study of the attitudes of children of the former Soviet Union between the ages of 10 and 15. Reports results showing children's uncertainty about the future of Communism and dislike for Stalin but support for state ownership of property. Presents student views on life plans, values, and personal interests. (SG)

Presents a Russian mother's thoughts on her child's entry into school. Argues that education must promote the development of a free person. Discusses the institutional barriers to freedom and individuality for student and teacher alike. Recommends a radical restructuring of adults' relations with children. Expresses the belief that perestroika…

Examines the opinions of schoolchildren in former Soviet Union and the need for educators to promote students' independent thinking. Reports that 53 percent of students reported an unwillingness to question the collective will. Argues that students will learn critical thinking through involvement in learning, the expression of personal opinion,…

Examines needed changes in vocational education in former Soviet Union as the nation shifts to a market economy. Suggests that there should be more emphasis on individual student needs. Argues that vocational education must include training in information sciences, computers, foreign languages, social psychology, and urban ecology. Recommends…

Presents observations concerning religion study in 150 Moscow schools. Reports that, although there are still some extracurricular activities promoting traditional former Soviet atheistic ideology, religion is now taught openly. Indicates that religion and atheism also are being studied on a scientific-philosophical basis. Examines how various…

Contends that many problems facing Russian society are the results of serious neglect of secondary education. Reviews education in the former Soviet Union and in Russia since the USSR's breakup. Calls for extensive experimentation in curriculum development, teaching methods, and school management. (CFR)

Contends that there is a growing world market in education that has particular importance for Russia and Europe. Discusses the growing numbers of higher education students who study in other nations. Presents a list of recommendations that provide a foundation for Russia's future participation in international education. (CFR)

Discusses the introduction of a course titled, "Ethics and Psychology of Family Life," in Russian public schools. Asserts that teachers are not trained adequately in the content and educational strategies necessary to teach the course. Describes an inservice teacher education course designed to help. (CFR)

Asserts that educational researchers have not paid enough attention to issues and problems related to parenting adolescents. Reports on a study of 300 Russian parents and 300 upper-grade students from both rural and urban environments. Summarizes those parenting skills and family practices that appear to be effective. (CFR)